Definition

Noun: - One of the Seven Gods of Happiness (Shichi-fuku-jin): In Japanese mythology and folklore, Hotei is a deity who represents contentment, abundance, and good fortune. He is traditionally depicted as a stout, smiling, bald man carrying a large cloth sack.

Usage Notes

The word "Hotei" is a proper noun, always capitalized. It refers specifically to this singular figure from Japanese belief systems. It is not used as a common noun.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The statue in the garden is of Hotei, the laughing Buddha.
  • Many businesses place a figurine of Hotei near the entrance to attract prosperity.

Advanced Usage

• Cultural Reference: Hotei is often conflated with or referred to as the "Laughing Buddha" in Western contexts, though this is a simplification of the distinct figure from Chinese Buddhism.
  • In popular culture, the image of Hotei is frequently used as a symbol of happiness and good luck.

Variants and Related Words

• Shichi-fuku-jin: (Proper Noun) The collective group of seven deities of good fortune, of which Hotei is a member.
• Fukusuke: (Noun) Another Japanese figurine representing luck, often confused with but distinct from Hotei.

Synonyms

• Laughing Buddha: A common English epithet for Hotei, emphasizing his jovial depiction.
• God of Fortune/Contentment: A descriptive synonym highlighting his divine domain.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Rubbing Hotei's belly": This phrase refers to the common belief that rubbing the belly of a statue of Hotei brings good luck, wealth, or prosperity.
  • Tourists often rub the belly of the Hotei statue for good luck.

Noun

1. one of the 7 gods of happiness